Arts and creative industries leader will take up the role from 1 December 2026, succeeding interim Chair Ian Wilson.
Following a rigorous, open and competitive recruitment process, Catherine Mallyon CBE has been appointed as Chair-Elect of Royal Holloway’s Council. She will assume the role of Chair of Council on 1 December 2026 from Ian Wilson, who has given outstanding service as Chair on an interim basis during 2026.
Catherine brings with her extensive leadership experience in the arts and creative industries, as well as deep commitment to inclusive, inspiring educational opportunity.
She is Chair of Creative UK, the national body representing the UK’s cultural and creative industries, and of the Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre Trust, one of the UK’s largest regional theatres. She has previously served as Executive Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and as Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Operations of the Southbank Centre, with non-executive work spanning Council membership of the Arts and Humanities Research Council and Arts Council England.
Catherine Mallyon CBE said:
“It is a huge honour to be joining Royal Holloway's Council. As well as its academic excellence, not least in the cultural and creative industries where I have spent much of my career, I was deeply drawn to the university's sense of purpose, and how its students, academics, professional services colleagues and leadership team are striving to make so much positive change. I have loved starting to learn about everything Royal Holloway achieves and I can't wait to get started.”
Professor Julie Sanders, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Catherine to our Council as Chair-Elect. Catherine brings strategic vision, passion for higher education, and evident commitment to our values which I am sure will help to shape the next chapter for Royal Holloway as a University of Social Purpose. I very much look forward to working together.
“I would also like to thank Ian Wilson for his outstanding work as out Chair in recent months, and to all Council members for their constructive support and engagement over time.”
Council is Royal Holloway’s senior governing body, setting the overall strategic direction for Royal Holloway, and ensuring our financial, academic and environmental sustainability. Its membership comprises independent members who bring expertise from a range of sectors and backgrounds; the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Royal Holloway Students’ Union President and Vice-President Education on an ex officio basis; and elected colleagues from academic and professional services areas.
